A friend in need is a friend indeed

Posted by Felicity on May 15, 2003

Since it is translated from the Latin verse that means "a sure friend is known when in difficulty", why does the above phrase mean "friends become friendlier when they want something from you"?

I always thought that it means - if during your time of need, s/he is a friend to you, then s/he is indeed a true friend.

• Archived discussion R. Berg 05/15/03